Light a Spark 2024

July 4th Celebration at Stillwater Public Library

Light a Spark is an annual Fourth of July extravaganza hosted by Stillwater Public Library Foundation and generously sponsored by the Huelsmann Foundation. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Johnson Terrace at Stillwater Public Library, this event serves as both a community-building initiative and a fundraiser to support the library's most pressing needs. Light a Spark begins at 7:30 p.m. and ends after the fireworks, at 10:30 p.m. Attendees are treated to an array of delights, including food, refreshing drinks, a cash bar, and engaging games, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

However, the highlight of the evening is undoubtedly the breathtaking view of the fireworks from the terrace. Families and friends gather in this beautiful setting, basking in the warmth of camaraderie as they marvel at the vibrant fireworks illuminating the night sky.

The Johnson Terrace at Stillwater Public Library provides the perfect vantage point for revelers to come together, celebrate the spirit of Independence Day, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Light a Spark epitomizes the essence of community, unity, and celebration, making it a beloved tradition for the Stillwater community year after year.

Tickets

Tickets are now available and are $25 per person, $40 for a couple, or $90 for a family (up to 4 tickets). Use the button below to purchase tickets online for Light a Spark 2024. If you would prefer to purchase your tickets by check, please mail your check to Stillwater Public Library Foundation, 224 3rd. St. N., Stillwater, MN 55082 and note that your check is for Light a Spark tickets. In the event that Light a Spark is canceled due to inclement weather, your ticket purchase will be considered a donation to the Stillwater Public Library Foundation. Any questions, please call (651) 504-2350 or email splf@stillwaterlibraryfoundation.org.

Sponsorship Tiers:

We invite you to be part of an electrifying celebration this Fourth of July by sponsoring the "Light a Spark" event, hosted by Stillwater Public Library Foundation. This annual event not only brings the community together in joyous celebration but also serves as a vital fundraiser to support the initiatives of Stillwater Public Library.

Shooting Star ($5,000+)

  • Company logo/name listed on Foundation & Library websites & in social media posts

  • Sponsor recognition during the event program

  • 8 entry tickets & up to 4 reserved parking spaces

Roman Candle ($2,500)

  • Company logo/name listed on Foundation & Library websites & in social media posts

  • Sponsor recognition during the event program

  • 6 entry tickets & up to 3 reserved parking spaces

Bottle Rocket ($1,000)

  • Company logo/name listed on Foundation & Library websites & in social media posts

  • Sponsor recognition during the event program

  • 4 entry tickets & up to 2 reserved parking spaces

Firecracker ($500)

  • Company logo/name listed on Foundation & Library websites & in social media posts

  • Sponsor recognition during the event program

  • 2 entry tickets & up to 1 reserved parking space

Sparkler ($250)

  • Company or name listed on Foundation website

  • 2 entry tickets

To Sponsor

Your generous support will not only enhance the festivities of the event but will also contribute to the enrichment of our community by supporting resources and programs offered by the Stillwater Public Library.

To become a sponsor, use the button below to pay online. If you would prefer to pay by check, please mail your check to Stillwater Public Library Foundation, 224 3rd. St. N., Stillwater, MN 55082 and note that your check is to sponsor Light a Spark. For more information, please contact Elsbeth Howe at (651) 504-2350 or splf@stillwaterlibraryfoundation.org.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to light up our community with your support.

Thank You 2024 Sponsors!

 

Presenting Sponsor-Huelsmann Foundation

Stillwater Public Library Foundation is incredibly grateful for the Huelsmann Foundation’s support for Light a Spark 2024! The Huelsmann Foundation’s support is instrumental to the success of Light a Spark. Thanks to the dedication of the Huelsmann Foundation, Stillwater Public Library Foundation is able to provide vital resources to Stillwater Public Library, creating a vibrant community in Stillwater. We are truly fortunate to have the Huelsmann Foundation as a partner, and we look forward to continuing to make a difference together.

About the Huelsmann Foundation:

Life-long Stillwater resident, Dick Huelsmann, founded the Huelsmann Foundation in 1997, entrusting it to his nieces, Kristin Danielson Rossiter and Jennifer Huelsmann, after his death in 2007.

According to Jennifer Huelsmann, their uncle left behind:

“…an amazing example of stewardship in the community that was very intentional and very focused… He clearly wanted to help those who couldn’t help themselves, people who didn’t have a lot of financial means. But he also liked to donate in ways that were substantial and long-lasting, and that add to the beauty of people’s lives.”


Shooting Star $5,000+

Roman Candle $2,500

Bottle Rocket $1,000

  • Maureen Bell

  • Paul & Claire Spilseth

  • Ann & Steve Wolff

Firecracker $500

Sparkler $250

  • Craig &Karen Hansen

  • Linda L. Long

2023 Event Recap

The Stillwater Public Library Foundation is grateful to everyone who supports the Foundation and Library. In 2023, nearly 300 people attended the event; the Stillwater fireworks over the river were the finale to a wonderful Independence Day celebration with friends and family. This year’s event sold out quickly - be sure to get your tickets early in 2024.

Huelsmann Foundation

“Life-long Stillwater resident, Dick Huelsmann, founded the Huelsmann Foundation in 1997, entrusting it to his nieces, Kristin Danielson Rossiter and Jennifer Huelsmann, after his death in 2007. According to Jennifer Huelsmann, their uncle left behind, ‘an amazing example of stewardship in the community that was very intentional and very focused. He clearly wanted to help those who couldn’t help themselves, people who didn’t have a lot of financial means. But he also liked to donate in ways that were substantial and long-lasting, and that add to the beauty of people’s lives.’

In carrying out his legacy, the Huelsmann Foundation supports charitable, religious and educational organizations whose programs strengthen and enrich the community they serve. The grant-making focus is primarily on qualifying non-profit organizations that contribute to the vitality and well-being of Stillwater, Minnesota and nearby communities.” - The Huelsmann Foundation

Thank you 2023 Sponsors

In addition to the Huelsmann Foundation, the Stillwater Public Library is pleased to thank the many individuals and businesses who supported the 2023 event. Thanks to your generosity, the Light a Spark tradition continues to develop and grow, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back this year, 2024.

Patrick & Jane Thiele | Friends of Stillwater Public Library | Ann & Steve Wolff | Laurie & Drew Arnold | Summer Seidenkranz & Clark Schroeder | Mark & Jan Debe | Jim & Jan Seifert
Doug & Paula Hemer | Maureen Bell | Ryan & Mary Collier